NNL Super 8 Play-Off: Final Matches To Be Held Simultaneously at Two Different Stadiums, Organizers Reveal.
In an exciting development for the Nigeria National League (NNL) Super 8 play-offs, the final matches will be played simultaneously at two venues: the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium and the University of Enugu (UNEC) Temporary Stadium. The first set of matches will kick off at 10:00 AM on June 12, 2024, followed by the second set at 12:30 PM.
The Northern Conference remains highly competitive, with all teams still in contention. Nasarawa United leads with six points after two wins and needs just a draw to secure one of the coveted tickets to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL). Critical matches between Sokoto United and El-Kanemi Warriors, as well as Beyond Limits Academy and Ikorodu City, will be played behind closed doors to prevent potential clashes among supporters. This decision, as explained by NNL Chief Operating Officer Dr. Ayo Abdulrahaman, aims to maintain order and safety during these high-stakes games.
In a previous incident, El-Kanemi Warriors were fined One Million Naira (₦1m) due to the unruly behavior of their supporters on Match Day 1 against Nasarawa United.
Sporting Supreme, with three points from a win and a loss to El-Kanemi Warriors, also remains in the hunt. Sokoto United, currently without points, could still qualify with a significant victory over El-Kanemi Warriors, depending on the outcome of the match between Sporting Supreme and Nasarawa United. These teams will play their final fixtures at 10:00 AM, with Sporting Supreme facing Nasarawa United at the Cathedral, while Sokoto United takes on El-Kanemi Warriors at the UNEC Temporary Stadium.
In the Southern Conference, Ikorodu City will battle Madiba FC at the Cathedral, and Inter Lagos will engage Beyond Limits from Ikenne-Remo, Ogun State. Beyond Limits tops the group with four points after one win and a draw, followed by Madiba FC with three points after a surprising 2-1 victory over Inter Lagos on Match Day 2. Ikorodu City has two points, while Inter Lagos sits at the bottom with one point.
Dr. Abdulrahaman emphasized that the decision to play these matches simultaneously ensures a fair chance for all teams, allowing them to play to their strengths without any bias or advantage.
Fans are eagerly anticipating these decisive matches, which will determine the teams advancing to the NPFL.